Case Study

Creating a sanctuary for staff wellbeing at Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust

This training centre and library redesign project supports mental health and promotes staff retention through a thoughtfully designed environment for relaxation and learning.

The brief

Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust’s project was to refurbish their existing training centre and introduce a new library to replace a recently closed facility. The project focused on redesigning the layout to optimize space for training sessions and providing dedicated breakout spaces in the form of staff and student lounges, with a key objective of supporting users’ mental health. FAP Architects were lead consultant for the redevelopment, collaborating with trusted suppliers, including Ocura Healthcare Furniture, to successfully bring the vision to life.

The approach

With a charity funding boost during the project, FAP Architects were asked to work with the end users to further develop the interior strategy, with new furniture throughout the facility. Following research on how areas would be used, the scheme developed with an earthy colour palette which makes use of textured vinyl and wood finishes. The look and feel were essential to fostering a calm yet inspirational working environment for staff and students.

FAP led the project’s space utilisation and colour scheme, collaborating closely with key stakeholders from the Trust and experts at Ocura. Longevity and durability were priorities, ensuring that the furniture selected would stand the test of time. The design also ensured uniformity across all three departments housed in the facility, providing a cohesive and connected training experience.

The outcome

The completion of the project has resulted in a space that is tailored to staff’s needs. Especially when it comes to relaxing and training in an environment outside of the usual clinical feel of a healthcare environment. The use of Ocura’s Opti-Lite range has allowed for bespoke colourways, promoting a ‘home away from home’ feel.

The space’s look and feel advocates investment in its staff wellbeing, ultimately leading to staff retention.

“It’s been a pleasure working with Ocura Healthcare Furniture on ‘The Mint — Training and Library’ project. Their constant professionalism and prompt response times were valued throughout. At all times we were confident and comfortable that it was all in hand.

It was apparent from the beginning that both Freeman Ankerman Partnership and Ocura were working towards the same goal; making sure the space was optimised for the end user. Both companies knew how crucial this space would be for staff wellbeing and mental health, and we truly believe we have achieved a space bespoke for this requirement.

We’d recommend Ocura for anyone who needs specialised healthcare furniture to suit their space and needs.”

Minal Patel, Associate Director, Freeman Ankerman Partnership Ltd